A nurse is creating a plan of care for a child who has sickle cell anemia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
Discourage a high level of fluid intake.
Administer meperidine every 4 hr for pain.
Apply cold compresses to painful, swollen joints.
Observe for indications of hypokalemia.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Discouraging a high level of fluid intake is incorrect, as hydration is essential for preventing sickle cell crises and reducing blood viscosity. The nurse should encourage the child to drink at least 1.5 times the normal fluid requirement.
Choice B reason: Administering meperidine every 4 hr for pain is incorrect, as meperidine is not recommended for sickle cell pain due to the risk of neurotoxicity and seizures. The nurse should use other opioids such as morphine or hydromorphone for pain management.
Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to painful, swollen joints is incorrect, as cold can cause vasoconstriction and worsen the sickling of red blood cells. The nurse should use warm compresses or heating pads to promote vasodilation and blood flow.
Choice D reason: Observing for indications of hypokalemia is correct, as sickle cell anemia can cause hemolysis and potassium loss. The nurse should monitor the child's serum potassium level and watch for signs of hypokalemia such as muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, and constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A 24-gauge catheter is appropriate for a small and fragile vein of a 12-month-old infant. It minimizes the risk of damaging the vein and ensures the comfort of the infant during IV therapy.
Choice B reason: Starting an IV in the infant's foot is not the first choice due to the risk of movement dislodging the catheter. The hand or the antecubital fossa are preferred sites for IV insertion in infants.
Choice C reason: While it is important to cover the IV insertion site, an opaque dressing is not necessary. A transparent dressing is preferred as it allows for continuous visibility of the site for signs of infection or phlebitis.
Choice D reason: The IV site should not be routinely changed every 3 days. It should be changed based on clinical indications such as signs of infection, infiltration, or phlebitis, or if the IV becomes dislodged.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"C","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Explanation
Choice A reason: Gingival hyperplasia is a condition where the gums become enlarged and inflamed. It is a common side effect of Phenytoin, a medication used to treat seizures. The nurse should educate the client and the guardian about the importance of oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to prevent or manage this condition.
Choice B reason: Hypoglycemia is a condition where the blood glucose level becomes too low. It is not a common side effect of albuterol, a medication used to treat asthma. Albuterol may cause tremors, tachycardia, or nervousness, but not hypoglycemia.
Choice C reason: Status epilepticus is a condition where seizures occur repeatedly without recovery. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. It may be triggered by exercise, but not necessarily. The nurse should ensure that the client has their seizure medication and rescue inhaler available at all times and knows how to use them.
Choice D reason: Bronchospasm is a condition where the airways become narrowed and obstructed. It is a common symptom of asthma, but not a side effect of Phenytoin. Phenytoin may cause other adverse effects, such as rash, nausea, or drowsiness, but not bronchospasm.
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